Group Site B

For Wisconsin adventure groups, scout troops, or large families seeking an unparalleled wilderness experience on Lake Superior, "Group Site B" at Rocky Island Campsites within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore offers an incredible opportunity. This isn't your typical communal picnic ground; it's a dedicated group site designed for multiple tents, providing a unique blend of seclusion and shared outdoor adventure that few places can match. If your group is looking to truly disconnect, immerse yourselves in pristine nature, and create lasting memories against the backdrop of one of Wisconsin's most iconic natural wonders, Group Site B is a prime choice.

Rocky Island, one of the more rugged and remote islands in the Apostle Islands archipelago, is a true gem for backcountry enthusiasts. Group Site B is specifically tailored for larger parties arriving by boat or sea kayak, ensuring a more private and authentic wilderness experience for your entire group. Imagine having ample space to set up multiple tents, gather around a shared campfire, and enjoy the raw beauty of Lake Superior. The National Park Service meticulously manages these sites, upholding strict "Leave No Trace" principles to preserve the island's delicate ecosystem. This commitment to preservation means visitors contribute to keeping this incredible wilderness available for future generations of Wisconsin outdoor adventurers, making it a responsible and rewarding choice for group outings.

Group Site B is located on Rocky Island, which is part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, with the general address being Bayfield, WI 54814, USA. More specifically, Rocky Island Group Site B is situated approximately "0.5 mile east of the Presque Isle Bay dock."

Access to Rocky Island, and subsequently to Group Site B, is exclusively by water. This means groups must arrive via private boat, sea kayak, or potentially a water taxi service from the mainland in Bayfield. Rocky Island is one of the more distant islands from the mainland, making it a destination primarily for experienced paddlers or power boaters comfortable navigating the often unpredictable waters of Lake Superior. While there is an NPS dock at Presque Isle Bay on Rocky Island, campers for Group Site B will need to navigate a short distance (0.5 mile) east from this dock to reach their designated site. The journey to Rocky Island itself is a significant part of the adventure, offering stunning views of other islands and the vast expanse of Lake Superior. Bayfield, the gateway community, provides essential services, outfitters for rentals, and ferry services to other islands, serving as a launching point for your island adventure. It is crucial for groups to plan their watercraft logistics carefully, considering the size of their party and the necessary gear.

• Group campsite specifically designed for larger parties (up to 18 people), offering ample space for multiple tents.
• Multiple designated tent pads to accommodate larger groups.
• Each group site is equipped with several picnic tables for communal dining and gathering.
• A large, designated fire ring suitable for group campfires (adhere to park regulations and fire bans).
• Multiple bear-resistant food lockers are included at the site, essential for safely storing food and scented items for larger quantities.
• A dedicated stump privy (a basic outdoor toilet) is provided for sanitation needs.
• No electric hookups, running water, or trash disposal services are available, emphasizing a primitive, leave-no-trace experience.
• Campsite requires watercraft access; there are no roads.

• Dedicated Group Site: Designed specifically for larger parties, offering adequate space and amenities tailored for group camping, ensuring comfort and privacy for up to 18 people.
• True Wilderness Immersion: Provides an authentic backcountry experience, allowing groups to fully disconnect and immerse themselves in the pristine environment of Lake Superior.
• Remote and Secluded: Rocky Island's distance from the mainland and the water-access-only nature of the site ensure a high degree of solitude, perfect for groups seeking to escape crowds.
• Pristine Lake Superior Environment: Offers direct exposure to the natural beauty of Lake Superior, with opportunities for kayaking, exploring the rugged shoreline, and enjoying stunning lake views.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: Essential for safe camping in bear country, multiple food lockers provide ample space for group provisions.
• "Leave No Trace" Principles: As part of a National Lakeshore, groups are encouraged to strictly adhere to "Leave No Trace" ethics, fostering environmental responsibility.
• Hiking and Exploration: Rocky Island, like other Apostle Islands, offers natural landscapes suitable for group hikes and exploration.
• Shared Experience: Ideal for fostering camaraderie and team building through a shared adventure in a unique natural setting.
• Unplugged Opportunity: The lack of modern amenities encourages groups to engage with nature and each other, away from digital distractions.

As a designated group campsite within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a unit of the U.S. National Park Service, Group Site B on Rocky Island does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Instead, camping is managed through a fee and reservation system.

Reservations are required for all group campsites, including Group Site B, and must be made well in advance through Recreation.gov due to their popularity. There is a per-night fee for the group campsite, in addition to a non-refundable reservation fee per trip.

While there are no discounts specific to the group site itself, holders of an Interagency Access Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities) may be eligible for discounts on certain park services and fees. Visitors should always consult the official Apostle Islands National Lakeshore website or Recreation.gov for the most current information regarding camping fees, reservation windows (which can be quite far in advance for group sites), and any specific regulations. The camping season on the islands is generally from late June to Labor Day, aligning with the most stable Lake Superior conditions, but early booking is crucial for group sites.

Address: Rocky Island, part of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (General address: Bayfield, WI 54814, USA)

For reservations and detailed information about group camping within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, it is best to use the official National Park Service channels:

Phone for Reservations/Park Rangers: (715) 779-3398 (select option 2)

General Park Information: (715) 779-3397

Website for Reservations: Recreation.gov (search for "Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits" and specify "Group Sites")

For Wisconsin groups, from outdoor clubs to large families and educational outings, Group Site B on Rocky Island offers an unparalleled opportunity for a truly immersive and challenging wilderness experience right here in their home state. This unique, boat-in access site is ideal for groups prepared for a self-sufficient adventure, making it a rewarding choice for those who want to truly test their outdoor skills and foster camaraderie in a stunning natural setting.

The dedicated group site ensures ample space and privacy, a rare find in many popular camping destinations. This allows for comfortable multi-tent setups and communal gathering areas, essential for a successful group trip. The remote nature of Rocky Island, combined with the pristine Lake Superior environment, provides an escape that feels far removed from the everyday, yet it's still within reach for Wisconsin residents willing to undertake the journey.

Camping here fosters a deep appreciation for "Leave No Trace" principles and encourages responsible outdoor stewardship, invaluable lessons for any group. It’s a chance to build strong bonds through shared challenges – from paddling across Lake Superior to setting up camp in a remote environment. For Wisconsin adventurers who seek to share a profound and unforgettable wilderness experience, Group Site B on Rocky Island stands as a premier destination, offering the perfect blend of challenge, beauty, and communal spirit within the magnificent Apostle Islands.